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It’s not just Div 296 that could face changes in 2026

With the objective of superannuation now firmly in place and a new draft of the Division 296 legislation out for consultation, it may seem there is little left to anticipate in the SMSF sector in 2026.

However, Tim Miller, head of education and technical for Smarter SMSF, said that is not necessarily the case.

“We entered a Labor government one term ago, and they said no changes to superannuation and then immediately dived into the introduction of Div 296 in its first form. Then the objective of super, of course, with an introductory date of post the election cycle was [also introduced],” Miller said.

“We’re now into this second cycle and there’s a bit of intrigue about what other measures might we see from the Labor government. There are a couple of things we have spoken about such as the redefining of Australian super funds to assist self-managed super funds satisfy that requirement where we’ve got people overseas.

“Another measure that had been spoken about by both the current government and the former government is in regards to changes around conditions of release and access to super and really touching on illegal early access, as well as when super should be the first port of call in certain circumstances.”

Aaron Dunn, director of Smarter SMSF, added the issue of financial abuse is also potentially an area that could be subject to more government regulations.

“We’ve seen a parliamentary joint committee undertake an inquiry around that and look at ways in which the rules might need to be tightened or adjusted to accommodate for those circumstances,” Dunn said.

“SMSFs were certainly a part of that, where you had controlling behaviours within the trusteeship of the fund, and the ability of the abused individual to potentially exit, and then get their superannuation monies. I think the other issue that is a bit of a free hit, in some respects, is around the adjustments we might see for compassionate grounds, and in particular the way in which it’s currently being used, seems to be beyond the scope or intent of what it was initially.”

Miller said in regard to this issue, reports are generally around medical conditions and cosmetic procedures with less focus on compassionate grounds such as funeral expenses and home modifications.

“It’s clearly where you’ve got individuals who have a vested interest in getting access to the money making the decisions about accessing it, and it’s always a key issue. Of course, with compassionate grounds, appreciating that the regulator is the one that makes a decision,” he said.

“One of the areas around conditions of release was how much power should be handed over to the regulator, and whether things like financial hardship should move from a trustee decision to a regulatory decision as well. It will be interesting to see if there is any movement at all in that space during this year, but also during this parliamentary term.”

Dunn continued that the area of investments, especially following the Dixon and First Guardian inquiries, could also instigate some changes in the next year.

“What’s been quite interesting in the last few months is the fact that we’ve seen this concept being floated predominantly through the media that is code for ‘let’s get that fed in and test the waters’ around whether SMSF will have any further levies imposed on them to help deal with compensation,” he said.

“We’re talking specifically about the Compensation Scheme of Last Resort and to me that’s definitely going to be an interesting one to watch this year. The way in which the compensation scheme is currently being funded is massively disjointed and unfair in the context of how much advisers are having to pay based upon the quantums of money that are involved around compensation.

“But it’s an interesting setting that the Labor Party is trying to establish by bringing SMSF trustees, in essence, into this to say, ‘well, actually, now you guys can pay your share as well’.”

Keeli Cambourne
January 12, 2026
smsfadviser.com

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Retirement Planning

Retiring on your own terms is not always easy to achieve, however it is evident that those who plan for retirement are more likely to do so. Results also show that obtaining professional help during the pre-retirement years further improves the probability of attaining your retirement objectives.

The earlier you start implementing a plan the better the outcomes.

During one’s working life there is always an income to make ends meet when raising children, paying off a mortgage, etc.

Retirement planning is about the lifestyle you will have after you stop work and receiving employment income. Planning focuses on issues such as how much superannuation is enough, taking a super pension, claiming the Age Pension, making superannuation contributions while receiving a pension from a super fund, estate planning and looking after your family.

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Building Wealth

Investing your hard earned savings can be a complex task. There are many issues such as levels of risk, market timing, asset classes, and your own goals, objectives and preferences that need to be considered. It can often seem a daunting task. At Wybenga Financial we have the expertise to assist you in taking control of your finances and making sure you are generating the wealth you need both now and in the future.

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Personal Insurance

Life insurance isn’t just a cost, though it often feels like it. You buy peace-of-mind that should a serious issue effect you then the consequences won’t unduly affect your family. Insurance provides you with the ability to manage the financial and emotional impact of some of the more drastic events, whether personally or in your small business.

Insurance can’t replace a loved one but it can help reduce the financial burden by providing the capital to ensure your family has choices.

Many Australians are underinsured and the consequences can be very serious for families should there be a death or serious injury. A yes to any of the following questions means you may have a need for insurance coverage:

Do you have a mortgage?
Do you have school fees?
Do you have any personal loans?
Do you have any credit card debt?
Do you have dependents?
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Superannuation

Superannuation is mandatory but taking an early and active interest in your retirement planning is critical to ensuring your benefits are maximised by the time you retire. Many will have a superannuation scheme through employment but increasing numbers are starting their own Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF).

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Self Managed Super Funds

Self-Managed Superannuation Funds (SMSFs) offer a good strategy option for many individuals, families and small business owners to build tax effective wealth and to protect assets over time. SMSFs are becoming popular for those who are ready to take control of their own super investments as they give you ultimate control and flexibility to manage your retirement benefits.

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Estate Planning

Your estate is made up of everything you own. This includes your home, property, furniture, car, personal possessions, business, investments, superannuation and bank accounts.

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Finance

Loans and loan management are central to overall financial management. Obtaining the the most appropriat loans for your needs is crucial and Wybenga Financial can help you with solutions that meet your short and long term needs.

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Property

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Strategic Planning

Strategic planning is determining how an investor is going to meet their goals and objectives. It is about helping clients define their goals, gathering information and analysing data to make a plan, then implementing the plan and reviewing the results. It is also reviewing and updating goals and objectives as clients move through different phases of life.

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Financial Videos

Secure File Transfer

Secure File Transfer is a facility that allows the safe and secure exchange of confidential files or documents between you and us.

Email is very convenient in our business world, there is no doubting that. However email messages and attachments can be intercepted by third parties, putting your privacy and identity at risk if used to send confidential files or documents. Secure File Transfer eliminates this risk.

General Calculators

Please enjoy the links to these free tools supplied by MoneySmart – a great resource for general financial information. Please get in touch if you would like to discuss any questions that you may have as a result of using these calculators.

Managing my money

Borrowing and credit

Mortgage calculator
Mortgage switching calculator
Mortgage health check
Personal loan calculator
(also suitable for car loans)
Credit card calculator

Superannuation

Retirement planner
(how to boost your super)
Superannuation calculator
(how fees affect your payout)
Super contributions optimiser
Super vs mortgage calculator
Super co-contribution calculator
Employer contributions calculator

Retirement

Investing

Tess Uncle

B.Sc, M.Com, CA, DipFP

Tess has been working in Chartered Accounting Firms since 2001 and in this time has had a broad range of experience in superannuation, taxation, business services, and financial strategy.

Since 2016, Tess has turned her attention to Financial Planning, earning a Diploma of Financial Planning in 2015 and leading the newly established financial division of the Wybenga Group as a director of Wybenga Financial.

Tess’s mission is to bring the ethics and integrity of her Chartered Accounting background to the area of wealth management.

As a woman in a male dominated field, Tess is active in promoting gender equality in the industry through various programs and mentoring opportunities.

Using her depth of knowledge and experience in tax and accounting Tess is able to demonstrate a level of competence that is unique in the Financial Planning sector.

2001 – Commenced employment with Wybenga & Partners and part-time accountancy studies
2004 – Graduated Masters of Commerce from the University of New South Wales
2005 – Admitted as an Associate Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand
2007 – Promoted to Manager at Wybenga & Partners
2012 – Appointed as Associate Director
2015 – Awarded a Diploma of Financial Planning
2016 – Appointed as Director of Wybenga Group Pty Ltd, Wybenga & Parthers Pty Ltd and Wybenga Financial Pty Ltd

Schedule a Meeting with Tess

Adam Roberts

B.Bus, B.Sc, CA, DipFP

Adam has been working in Chartered Accounting Firms since 2005 and in this time has had a broad range of experience in superannuation, taxation, business services, and financial strategy.

Since 2016, Adam has turned his attention to Financial Planning, earning a Diploma of Financial Planning in 2015 and leading the newly established financial division of the Wybenga Group as a director of Wybenga Financial. Adam specialises in Financial Planning, wealth accumulation, portfolion management, tax and investment strategies including structuring investments and superannuation, and insurances.

Adam’s mission is to bring the ethics and integrity of his Chartered Accounting background to the area of wealth management.

Combining traditional accounting and financial services has been a welcome move for Adam, allowing him to operate and advise in the financial sector that has been a long time personal passion.

Using his depth of knowledge and experience in tax and accounting Adam is able to demonstrate a level of competence that is unique in the Financial Planning sector.

2005 – Graduated Bachelor of Science from the University of Western Sydney
2005 – Commenced employment with Wybenga & Partners and part-time accountancy studies
2007 – Graduated Bachelor of Business from the University of Western Sydney
2010 – Admitted as an Associate Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand
2010 – Promoted to Manager at Wybenga & Partners
2012 – Appointed as Associate Director
2015 – Awarded a Diploma of Financial Planning
2016 – Appointed as Director of Wybenga Group Pty Ltd, Wybenga & Parthers Pty Ltd and Wybenga Financial Pty Ltd

Schedule a Meeting with Adam

Advisory Cadetships

What is an Advisory Cadetship?
An Advisory Cadetship enables you to commence your career whilst attaining the necessary university qualifications by studying part-time.

How does it work?
Generally, our cadets complete a relevant business or accounting degree at the University of New South Wales, the University of Technology Sydney, Macquarie University, or the University of Western Sydney.

The Firm provides 3-hours paid study leave per week to attend university. This can either be taken at the one time or broken between days depending on the individual’s requirements. In addition, the Firm provides paid study leave for both mid-semester and end-of-year exams.

We take the work life balance very seriously at Wybenga Financial and our cadets are encouraged to have a fulfilling life outside the office. A typical day will have you arriving at the office at around 8.30am with most days concluding at 5.30pm.

What are the benefits of an Advisory Cadetship with Wybenga Financial?
Our cadets benefit from the following:

Career path – on completion of their degree our cadets have significant practical experience which will assist them in advancing their careers
Work helps your studies – by working full-time our cadets are able to apply their practical knowledge in the university subjects
Camaraderie with other cadets – the Firm has a number of cadets at various stages of their career
Mentoring – cadets are paired with a senior staff member who oversees their progress and training both at work and with their studies
Communication and feedback – the Firm has an open door policy which enables all cadets to interact with all members of staff including Directors
Culture – the Firm promotes a friendly social culture with a number of functions throughout the year
Modern environment – including ‘socialising’ areas such as pool table and break out area
Training – ongoing support and technical training. We also provide internal and external training on a monthly basis
Remuneration – working full-time provides a market salary and independence with salaries being reviewed every 6-months

What happens when I complete my degree?
The completion of your degree is the first step of what we hope to be a long and successful career with us. The next step is the commencement of a Diploma of Financial Planning followed by completing the requirements to become a Certified Financial Planner (CFP).

There are always progression opportunities for the right cadets and we are dedicated to the long term development of our staff.

Who should apply?
Current Year 12 students or first/second year University Students who:

want to commence their career in financial advisory;
are due to commence or are currently completing a part-time business or commerce degree at university with an advisory major;
want to gain valuable hands-on experience while completing their qualifications;
are looking for a friendly working environment;
are team players who display initiative;
have a commitment to self-development;
possess excellent personal presentation and communication skills; and
are motivated and mature minded.

How do I apply for an Advisory Cadetship?
To apply for a Cadetship position at Wybenga Financial send us your details. Please also include in your covering letter why you wish to do a cadetship, include relevant qualities you possess, main interests / achievements, and any previous employment.

Interested candidates should initially forward a resume/covering letter of no more than 3-pages. Please provide full details of contact information (telephone or e-mail).

What if I have more questions?
For further information about our Cadetship program, please send your enquiry to .